The scenic, cheap, delightfully nerdy way to explore Sydney—especially if you’re arriving by cruise ship to the Overseas Passenger Terminal

If you’re stepping off a cruise at Circular Quay or simply starting your Sydney adventure in the city centre, chances are you’ve already spotted the bright yellow and green ferries skimming across the water. As of the writing of this post there are ten ferry routes connect Circular Quay to destinations. From Manly in the east to Parramatta in the west. Sydneysiders genuinely love these ferries, they’re practical public transport, a built-in harbour cruise, and even a point of celebration thanks to the annual Ferrython.

Sydney’s ferry fleet includes nine different classes of vessels, each with its own naming tradition. The First Fleet Class are named after the ships of the First Fleet, while the Emerald Class honour leading figures from Australian and Aboriginal history. The River Class vessels recognise influential people who’ve shaped NSW’s culture, and the RiverCats are proudly named after notable Australian female athletes. Find out more at the TransDev site.

This guide breaks down the most popular routes, the underrated gems, how to pay, accessibility info, and quick tips based on how much time you have.

Why take the ferry in Sydney?

Cheap: A standard adult fare is typically $3–$9, depending on distance.
Scenic: You’re basically getting a harbour cruise for the price of public transport.
Frequent: Most major routes run every 10–30 minutes.
Beginner-friendly: Easy to navigate, clearly signed, and accessible.
Perfect for cruise passengers: You’re already in the middle of the ferry hub.

The big hitters

Manly (F1)

Travel time: 20–30 minutes Frequency: Every 10–20 minutes

This is the iconic ferry trip. You’ll sail past the Opera House and out through the heads, watching the harbour widen into ocean. Once in Manly, everything is walkable: beaches, breweries, and gelato. It’s a perfect half-day outing and especially convenient for visitors with a free morning or afternoon. Local top, sit on the right side going out for the best Opera House views. If the swell is big, consider the slower Freshwater-class ferries—they’re much more stable.

Taronga Zoo (F2)

Travel time: 12 minutes Frequency: Every 10–20 minutes

Even if you’re not heading into the zoo, the view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as the ferry pulls away is next-level. If you are visiting the zoo, the sky tram at the top offers even more aerial views (weather permitting). Arrive at the zoo early—mornings have fewer crowds and take the sky tram to the TOP of Taronga Zoo then walk back down to the ferry stop. Taronga Zoo is surprsiingly steep.

Milsons Point/Luna Park (F2)

Travel time: 4–5 minutes Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes

This is the gentle “intro to Sydney ferries.” The trip is short but spectacular, and it drops you right under the Harbour Bridge. Great for families, photographers, or a short wander through Kirribilli’s leafy streets. Luna Park is an iconic fun park with the similing face entrance. Luna Park is free to enter, but rides are ticketed. If you’re visisiting on certain days outside of New South Wales school holidays, the run ‘Luna lite days’ for less cost.

If you have a bit more time, visit Wendy’s Whiteley’s Secret Garden. From Milsons Point ferry wharf, walk left along the harbour foreshore pathway towards Luna Park, go through the tunnel, and up the stairs to the garden.

If you have even more time, you can walk back to Circular Quay from Luna Park via the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The walk back is about 40 minutes and requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Less busy (but still beautiful) spots

Watsons Bay (F9)

Travel time: 20–25 minutes Frequency: Every 30 minutes

Visit Watson's Bay for stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean, relaxing beachside activities, and a dose of history. It's a great destination for a day trip to enjoy scenic walks like the South Head Heritage Trail, harbourside swimming at Camp Cove Beach, and dining at famous waterfront restaurants like Doyles. You can take the short walk around to the red and white Hornby Lighthouse where, at the right time of year, is a great whale watching spot.

Cockatoo Island (F3)

Travel time: 20–25 minutes Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes

Visit Cockatoo Island for its unique blend of history and recreation, spectacular harbour views, and diverse activities. You can explore its past as a convict gaol and shipyard, walk through tunnels, stay overnight in unique accommodation or camp, and enjoy cafes, picnics, and seasonal events. It’s the perfect mix of weird, historic, and scenic.

Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site because it is part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property, recognized for its role in convict history and as a major imperial prison and dockyard. The island is home to over 80 colonial and industrial assets, including buildings, docks, and slipways that provide a window into Australia's convict past and maritime industrial heritage.

Kirribilli / Jeffrey Street Wharf (F4, F8)

Travel time: 3–5 minutes Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes

A micro-trip across the harbour that leads to one of Sydney’s prettiest suburbs. If you time it well, you can get the Sydney Ferry experience, get some killer photos of the Sydney Opera House, and be back at Circular Quary in under an hour. Kirribilli is great for photography and peaceful wandering if you want to stay longer. This well-heeled suburb is known for great cafes, Victorian architecture, purple jacarandas, and on a Saturdays, the Kirribilli Markets are a local favourite.

Quick picks for visitors

If you have 1 hour:
- Milsons Point (Luna Park)
- Kirribilli
- Circular Quay → Darling Harbour on the F4
If you have 2 hours:
- Manly round-trip with a quick promenade walk
- Taronga Zoo ferry + a coffee at the wharf (no time for the Zoo itself)
- Watsons Bay for The Gap
If you have a half-day:
- Manly beaches + brewery
- Cockatoo Island wander
- Taronga Zoo visit

Accessibility

Sydney’s ferries are generally accessible, with:

Level boarding at most wharves - just note that while ferry boarding is mostly accessible, getting to the wharf itself can include steps.
Space for wheelchairs and mobility devices
Accessible toilets on larger vessels (e.g., Manly ferries)
Audio and visual announcements

Some older wharves (like Cremorne Point) have steeper ramps at low tide, but Circular Quay and all major routes are designed with accessibility in mind.

Tips for riding Sydney ferries

Sit outside if the weather is good — front and rear decks offer the best views.
Avoid peak commuter times 7:30–9:30am and 4–6:30pm
Check weekend service alerts — wharves sometimes close for maintenance.
Watch the wind — some outer-harbour services can be choppy.
No need to pre-book You can tap on/off with a credit card or and Opal.

Final thoughts

Sydney’s ferry network is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover the city. Whether you want a breezy hop to Kirribilli, a classic run to Manly, or a full adventure out to Cockatoo Island, you’re never more than a few minutes from a scenic adventure. And if you’re arriving by cruise ship? You’re already at the starting line.

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